Spring 2007 Archived News

CLS Faculty “Recognition of Excellence” Awards

Gary MacDonald (Department of Art) – Award for Teaching

Gary McDonald has an outstanding commitment to teaching and learning.  Through his innovations in teaching, students have developed their own personal vision with respect to the experience of photography.  He has studied African American culture and the 50’s-60’s civil right movement in American and with his students has documented Aids patients for the annual Aids Awareness program and banquet.  Using these experiences, Gary presents diversity as a key element in his courses.  He conducts unscheduled tutorials in the photography lab on nights and weekends allowing students access to lab technology and his vast expertise in photography.  “Mac” as he is affectionately known by colleagues and students brings generosity, inspiration and experience to the Department of Art.  The fruits of Gary McDonald’s teaching can be recognized in his students who have been named Minnesota Association’s College Photographer of the Year five times and Wisconsin Press Photographers’ College Photographer of the Year six times.

James Theler (Department of Sociology & Archaeology) - Award for Research/Scholarship/Creative Endeavors

James Theler is an outstanding teacher-scholar who brings research into his classroom.  During his 23 years at UW-L, Jim has authored 38 juried publications, 35 technical reports and book reviews, and presented 26 papers at state, regional and national meetings including the Wisconsin Academy of Science, the Society for American Archaeology, the Midwest Archaeological Conference, and the Plans Anthropological Conference.  He is a specialist in Midwest archaeology with a focus on prehistoric subsistence/settlement patterns and paleo-environmental and paleo-climate modeling based on vertebrate and molluscan fauna.  His research and analysis of the habitat and distribution of terrestrial snails in the Great Plans helps to better our understanding of the changing environments and cultural adaptations to those environments of ancient Native Americans.  Because of his painstaking and time consuming work with land snails, Jim is nationally recognized as an expert on land snails and their habitats.

Sandra Krajewski (Department of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies) – Award for Service

Sandra Krajewski has been engaged in service for the Department of Women’s Gender, and Sexuality Studies, the larger UW-L campus community, and for the greater areas of southwestern Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota since the early 1980s.  During her years at UW-L she has represented the university by publishing many articles and making numerous presentations.  Additionally, she has served on department and university committees.  Sandi helped develop and continue these campus programs:  C.A.R.E./Week Without Violence, Single Parent Program, Women Involved in Living and Learning, and Vagina Monologues annual performances.  From 1987 to the present she has written and received grants every year for her departments.  Additionally, Sandi has written grants for Houston County SSPSS program ($130,000); New Horizons Shelter and Women’s Center ($200,000); a 2006 grant for a collaborative project including UW-L, Viterbo University and Western Technical College from the Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women Campus Violence Prevention ($397,224).  For over 25 years Sandi has served her students, her department, her college and university, and the greater area around the university.        

CLS Undergraduate Student “Recognition of Excellence” Awards

Chun-Tso Lin (Art)

Chun-Tso “Jo-Jo” Lin, a senior with a major in art and a minor in photography, comes to UW-L from Taiwan.   He has won many awards including the Academic Initiative Award, two UW-L Undergraduate Research Grants, the UW-L All Student Art Award, the Milton and Margaret Kosbob Award, and the Richard Koehler Award.  He has had work experience in his field, working in the UW-L Painting Studio and the University Gallery.  Jo-Jo’s artwork has been displayed in a variety of exhibitions in La Crosse including “Gestalt:  Collaborative Artwork,” “Digital Design 06,” “French and American Collaboration,” “The World Café.” “All Student Juried Exhibition” and “T’aint Just a Photocopy” Group Installation.  He has also published in the Racquet, “A Knack for Nude Art,” “Welcome to the Art Show,”and “T’aint Just a Photocopy.” 

Sarah Krueger (Communication Studies)

Sarah Krueger is a Telecommunication major with a minor in International Studies (Middle Eastern emphasis). Not only does she carry a 4.0 GPA she has received three scholarships and was the only student from UW-L chosen by UW-Madison to participate in the Arabic Immersion Program. Her professional experience includes being a General Assignment Reporter for WXOW News 19, Morning Radio Personality for WCOW 97.1, and KQEG-TV Anchor, Reporter, Production Assistant, Producer, and Photographer. She was also Weekend Associate Producer, Off-camera Reporter, Assignment Editor, Production Assistant Tour Guide and Commercial Voice-over talent for WKBT-TV.  Some of her extra curricular activities include Social Action theatre, Awakenings Dance Team, Telecommunications Club, Voices in Praise Choir, Campus Crusade Planning Committee, and volunteer experiences such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Coulee Region Chapter, Crossfire Christian Outreach Center, and Bethany Evangelical Free Church Librarian. Sarah plans on graduating May 2007.  Sarah is the daughter of Tom and Debi Krueger of Onalaska, Wisconsin.

Ashley Larsen (Communication Studies)

Ashley Larsen is a Communication major with an emphasis in Organizational Communication and Public Relations and is Spanish minor. She has successfully achieved a 3.9 GPA and has studied abroad in Seville, Spain at the Spanish American Institute. Her professional experience consists of internships for Career Services where she had the opportunity to plan and promote events, research and develop new employment opportunities for students, advised students with resume, create a newsletter and increase awareness on campus. Ashley also interned for Direct Supply Inc. in Milwaukee, WI where she managed all aspects of a territory of long term care facilities, developed long-term relationships with customers, and coordinated with internal departments to respond to customer needs, requests and problems. Her extracurricular activities include Communication Club Officer, Lambda Pi Eta National Honors Society, and Intramural Volleyball. Ashley plans to graduate May of 2007.  Ashley is the daughter of Jim and Lori Larsen of New Berlin, Wisconsin.

Anthony Corso (Educational Studies)

Anthony Corso is receiving his “Recognition of Excellence” Award for his outstanding commitment in his study of Elementary/Middle Level Education.  Academically, Anthony was a member of the Dean’s List for four semesters and maintained a GPA of 3.41.  Throughout Wisconsin, Anthony has been committed to community service.  He has been a counselor, tutor, referee, and coach in youth and young adult programs.  For example, as a counselor at Lutherdale Bible Camp in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, he planned and carried out daily activities for children aged Kindergarten through high school.  In Anthony’s tutoring position through the La Crosse Boys and Girls Club, he guided a diverse group of children through extra practice in basic reading curriculum, construct extra reading lessons for children at various comprehension levels, and assist students in math-related practice.  He has also is a licensed soccer official and has coached in Kenosha and Racine along with numerous schools in the La Crosse school district.  All of these activities show that Anthony is very deserving of this recognition of excellence.  Anthony is the son of Keith and Sharon Corso of Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Michelle Gotto (Educational Studies)

Michelle Gotto, a native from Waukesha, WI, has been nominated by the department of Educational Studies for her excellence in the major of Middle Childhood/Early Adolescence Education.  Michelle deserves this award because of her several honors for track and field along with her dedication to academics.  For example, Michelle was named to the ESPN All District Academic Team in 2004-2005 and she received All-American Honors in Track and Field 2003-2005.  Michelle has contributed to the community through working in various teacher and classroom assistant capacities.  At Chileda Habilitation Institute, Michelle worked with children with severe behavioral disorders to develop daily living skills and assisted students in the classroom.  These experiences will help Michelle really excel in all of her future endeavors. 

Carolyn Olson (Educational Studies)

Carolyn Olson has been nominated by the Department of Educational Studies for the recognition of excellence award. Carolyn is majoring in English and is finishing her student teaching requirements this semester and will be a candidate for Wisconsin Early Adolescence- Adolescence licensure.  While attending the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse she showed her willingness to help others through different tutoring experiences and was the performance theatre director for a diversity awareness production. Carolyn was also a resident assistant in Residence Life. Even with her many involvements she has been a member of the Dean’s List.

Zachary Gander (History)

Zachary Gander is receiving the Recognition of Excellence award for his experience in the UW-L history department. One of Zach’s greatest accomplishments was the completion of a research project on the Winter War: Russo-Finnish War 1939-1940. Zach has been a member of the UW-La Crosse Students Advocating Potential Abilities, the UW-L College Republicans, and the Roncalli Newman Center. He has volunteered for numerous organizations, including the Salvation Army and the American Cancer society.  Zachary has been named to Dean’s List and has received the White Cane Scholarship, as well as the La Crosse Tribune Extra Effort Scholarship.  Zachary is the son of Barbara and Vernon Gander of La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Kristen Painter (History)

Kristen Painter is a History major with a minor in Ethnic and Racial Studies. She has kept up a 3.94 GPA and has achieved the Dean’s List all semesters. She has also been awarded the Frederick and Kathryn Davis Scholarship, William Laux Memorial Fund Scholarship and the Rena Angell ad Alpha Omicron Pi Scholarship. She has completed a 3 week Athletes’ In Action Missions Trip to Suva, Fiji where she taught local children athletic skills and competed and trained with Fiji National Track and Field Team. Her Historical experience includes Individual Research Projects on The Postmodern Church, The Historical Significance of Gnosticism, Mothers of Biracial/Multiracial Children, Immigration and Race Relations, and Historiography on the American Character. Additionally, Kristen’s athletic achievements include Captain of the Women’s Cross Country Team and Captain of the Women’s Track and Field Team. Kristen plans to graduate in May of 2007.

Brittany Heer (Modern Languages)

Brittany Heer is receiving the Recognition of Excellence award for her involvement with the French Program in the Department of Modern Languages. Brittany has only started her French studies during her freshman year at UW-L, yet excels beyond others who have been studying for 10 years. Brittany has studied in Nancy, France for a year and traveled to seven other European countries.  Brittany has taken a leadership role in the French Club, organizing noon conversation tables and evening film viewings.

Ryan Resch (Modern Languages)

Ryan Resch is a senior double majoring in English and Spanish. Among his many honors has been awarded the TDS Scholarship of America, and the 2006 Most Approachable and Emerging leader on Campus. His work experience includes Volunteering for the American Red Cross blood drive on campus; Volunteer to help professors and community with difficult chores with English Club members, TSD Metrocom Sales Representative, UW-L Library Reference Desk Assistant, and TDS Telecom Customer Service and Sales Representative. His many extracurricular activities consist of English Honors Society (Sigma Tau Delta), English Club, Book Club, SPEAK!, Spanish Honors Society (Sigma Delta Pi), Creativity Workshop for Kids, Literacy and Lyrics, ESL Advancement, and International Business Organization. Ryan has also studied abroad at Universitas Castellae in Valladolid, Spain and is participating in Project Guatemala, a grant he received along with another student to study the social, economical, and political factors influencing Guatemalan immigration to the United States.  Ryan is the son of Dale and Lynette Resch of Oregon.

Jennifer Wells (Modern Languages)

Jennifer Wells is a senior and double majoring in Spanish and Education. While keeping a steady 3.98 GPA she has gained much experience in the field teaching at Westby and Logan High Schools. She has also been busy tutoring at Brookwood School in Norwalk, Wisconsin, Franklin Elementary School in La Crosse, Irving Pertzsch Elementary School in Onalaska, the ESL Institute of UW-La Crosse and the UW-La Crosse Office of Multicultural Student Services where she taught English to Hispanic Adults and helped develop her students’ knowledge of American Culture. Among her busy schedule, Jennifer found time to volunteer at the Children’s Museum of La Crosse and Jose Morelos Elementary School in Puebla, Mexico. She has also done some assistant teaching at Neenah High School in Neenah, Wisconsin. Some of her activities and honors include Golden Key National Honors Society, Sigma Delta Pi Hispanic National Honors Society, Dean’s List, and she is the Current Vice President and past Treasurer of the UW- La Crosse Spanish Club. Jennifer plans on graduating in December of 2007.

Paul Lyden (Music)

Paul Lyden is a senior with a major in Music and a minor in Philosophy.  A graduate of Central High School in La Crosse, Paul attended Viterbo University for two years before transferring to UW-L for classical guitar performance.  He is a student in the studio of Dr. Richard Pinnell.  Paul’s passion for music is illustrated not only in his activities but in his work.  He has taught private guitar lessons for six years and has two current positions teaching at Reed Music Studios in Onalaska.  After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in music in May, 2007, Paul plans to obtain masters of music (MM) and doctorate of musical arts (DMA) degrees.  His ultimate goal is to teach guitar and other music courses at the university level. 

Therese Walth (Music)

Therese Walth has been nominated by the Music Department for the Recognition of Excellence Award. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin- La Crosse in December 2006 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Education, Choral Music Emphasis and a minor in Music Theatre Performance.  Therese has done her clinicals at Chaseburg & Westby Middle School and at Sparta High School where she was asked to server as a chaperone for two Sparta High School vocal jazz ensembles in New York City. She studied private voice under Dr. Terence Kelly for five years and was presented an outstanding Senior Voice Recital. She has participated in 15 play performances since beginning her journey at the University.  Therese was a Vanguard for three years and was elected an officer her final year. Not only was she involved on campus, but she was also involved off campus as well, being the original founder of the Youth Choir at English Lutheran Church. Even with these involvements and much more she was able to maintain her standing on Dean’s List from 2002-2006. Therese is the daughter of Gary and Catherine Walth of La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Tyler Schuenemann (Philosophy)

Tyler Schuenemann is a Philosophy and History major with a minor in International Studies.  He has received many awards including the David Lee Miller Scholarship for Creativity in Philosophy, the Frederick and Kathryn Davies Scholarship in History and the UW-L Undergraduate Research Grant.  Tyler presented his paper “Panelous and the Plague” at the 2005 State University of New York Oneonta Undergraduate Philosophy Conference.  His paper “Religious Aspects of Ecology:  Christianity and Daoism” was presented at the 2006 National Conference of Undergraduate Research in Asheville, North Caroline and at the 2006 Celebration of Undergraduate Research and Creativity at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.  As Co-Chair of the UW-L Amnesty International Club, Tyler has organized human right campaigns on campus.  He is currently in the midst of working on the Sudan-divestment campaign in Wisconsin.  In association with the UW-L Philosophy Club, he started a film club on campus which seeks to educate students about socio-political issues around the world.  He has been a tutor for the Boys and Girls Club at Hamilton Elementary in La Crosse.  Tyler has worked as a teaching assistant for Dr. David Miller, Dr. Kenneth Maly and Dr. Sharon Sherwitz in “Introduction to Philosophy” courses. He has been on the Dean’s List for five consecutive semesters.

Volodymyr Valkov (Political Science/Public Administration)

Volodymyr Valkov is a political science major with a minor in German. Along with making the Dean’s list every semester, Volodymyr is a member of Pi Sigma Alpha and Golden Key International Honor Society. He has also been Vice President of International Student Organizations and received a research grant focusing on the United Nations and its global peacekeeping and humanitarian roles. His experience includes participating in the Freedom Support Act-Future leaders Exchange Program and Close Up Foundation. He was informed this year that he will be part of the 2007 American Institute on Political and Economic Systems in Prague, Czech Republic. Volodymyr will graduate in May, 2008 and plans to pursue a career in politics.  He comes to La Crosse from the town of L’viv.

Jesse Carlson (Psychology)

Jesse Carlson is receiving the Recognition of Excellence award for his work in the psychology department. Jesse has been involved in Psi Chi (Psychology National Honors Society), Delta Phi Alpha (National German Honors Society), and has been on the Dean’s List all semesters of his college career. Jesse has worked in the Office of Modern Languages for five years, as well as been a German and Spanish tutor. He has volunteered as an aide at Irving Pertzsch Elementary School, working with children with disabilities.  Jesse has also worked as a parent visitation monitor for the Coulee Youth Centers of La Crosse.

Nicole Scher (Psychology)

Nicole Scher is a senior with a major in Psychology and a German minor. Along with a consistent 3.8 GPA Nicole has received many honors and been involved in many activities such as the Psychology Honors Program, Psychology National Honors Society (Psi Chi), Psychology Club, Safety on out Sidewalks, the German National Honors Society (Delta Phi Alpha), College of Liberal Studies and Science and Allied Health Honors Fraternity (Eta Phi Alpha), Golden Key International Society, Dean’s List, and was the 2006 Donna Hansen Memorial Scholarship in Psychology and the Spring 2006 Research Grant Recipient. Nicole’s work experience includes her internship at Siena Hall Halfway House in La Crosse, WI and her volunteer work with Boys and Girls Club, Special Olympics of Wisconsin, Bethany Lutheran Homes Dementia Unit, and Children’s Hospital Camp Counselor. She is planning to graduate in May of 2007.  Nicole is the daughter of Mary and Dave Scher of Glendale, Wisconsin.

Michelle Weltzien (Psychology)

Michelle Weltzien graduated from UW La-Crosse in December of 2006 with a major in psychology and Minors in Program Option: Biology and Community Health. Among her many honors and awards she has been a Midwest Psychological Association Regional Award Winner, part of Psi Chi-The Psychology National Honors Society, Golden Key International Honor Society, the Dean’s List, and recipient of the Thomas Harris Scholarship Award in Psychology, and an Undergraduate Research Grant Recipient. Michelle has also had experience in her field including Resident Care Assistant at Bethany Lutheran Homes, a Teaching Assistant at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for Introductory Psychology, and has volunteered at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in the Preventative Services Department. She has also conducted research on the relationship between health behaviors and aging expectations based on age for the Psychology Honors Program.  Michelle is the daughter of Ron and Karen Weltzien of Galesville, Wisconsin.

Caitlin Young (Psychology)

Caitlin Young is a senior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her honors and activities include the Psychology Honors Program, ESCAPE study Abroad Program to New Zealand and Australia, Psi Chi –National Psychology Honor Society  Vice President, the Dean’s List, Golden Key Honor Society, Psychology Club, Women’s Studies Student Association, Greener Living Committee, Baird Hall Quality of Life Committee, Leadership Conferences, and Intramural Volleyball. Caitlin has much related work experience including being a Resident Assistant in Baird Hall, Program Coordinator and Art and Garden Coordinator for Portage County Boys and Girls Club, Volunteer for New Horizons Shelter and Women’s Center, Environmental Coordinator for the UW-La Crosse Hutchinson Hall Executive Team, and Volunteer and Intern for La Crescent High School Guidance Office. Among other Research experience, she has conducted a literature review and developed a research hypothesis, been awarded a Regional Research Award from Psi Chi, and will present at Midwestern Psychological Association in May of 2007. Caitlin is planning to graduate in May of 2007.   Caitlin is the daughter of Laurel and Alan Young of Amherst, Wisconsin.

Brianne Nillissen (Psychology & Ethnic & Racial Studies)

Brianne Nillissen is a Psychology major with a minor in Ethnic and Racial Studies. Her professional experience includes Service Associate for Riverfront Inc. in La Crosse where she assists people with developmental disabilities in the community, trains workers to complete jobs independently, and teaches adult living skills and recreation. She is also an International Adoption Special Event Intern for Children’s Home Society & Family Services in St. Paul, MN and an Alternative Education Program Tutor for the Family & Children’s Center in La Crosse, WI. Brianne’s volunteer experience consists of having been a Recreation Coordinator for St. Paul Bible Church in Bowler, WI. And a Kindergarten Volunteer Assistant for English Lutheran Church in La Crosse, WI. Additionally, she was a Co-Researcher for the Psychology Honors Program for which she won a Regional Research Award from PSI CHI. Other extracurricular activities and honors include Golden Key Honor Society Corresponding Secretary, Psychology Club, Dean’s List, Circle K member and Secretary, and Intramural Volleyball and Basketball. Brianne plans to graduate May 2007.  Brianne is the daughter of Cheryl and Jerry Nillissen of Bowler, Wisconsin.

BreeAnna Breckel (Sociology & Archaeology)

BreeAnna Breckel is receiving the Recognition of Excellence award for her experience in the Sociology and Women’s Studies departments. BreeAnna has been involved in many activities on campus including being an Awareness through Performance actor. She has also volunteered for many political campaigns for social justice. BreeAnna actively educated students about the “No to the Ban” campaign, as well as “Bring the Troops Home” referendum.  She has been on political trips protesting the war in Iraq, as well as the School of the Americans Protest.  BreeAnna has been on the Dean’s List for the past four years.  BreeAnna is the daughter of Mike Breckel and Rita Wachuta-Breckel of Westby, Wisconsin.

Hollie Nyseth (Sociology & Archaeology)

Hollie Nyseth is a  Sociology major with minors in International Studies, Spanish, and Political Science. Along with a 4.0 GPA, Hollie has much leadership experience including(from present to past) Resident Assistant for Baird Hall, Teaching Assistant for Sociological Statistics, Recognition Days Committee, Vice President for Hutchinson Hall, Chair of Welcome Week for Hutchinson Hall, Secretary of Baha’i Association, Coalition of Anti-Racist Students, Conference Planning Committee, Political Science Organization, Colleges Against Cancer, and Hall Council. Hollie’s volunteer experience includes Relay for Life, Boys and Girls Club, Pencil Drive, and Safety on our Sidewalks. Other honors she has earned are a Faculty and Staff Scholarship, Resident Assistant of the Month, and Dean’s List. Hollie plans to graduate in May of 2007.  Hollie is the daughter of Tim and Linda Nyseth of Neillsville, Wisconsin.

Elizabeth Plunger (Sociology & Archaeology)

Elizabeth Plunger is a senior majoring in Archaeology and minoring in Anthropology. Along with her 3.9 GPA, Elizabeth’s professional experience includes various executive offices in the Archeology Club, where she has been involved in organizing student travel to national conferences and field trips to major archeological sites and museums, and raising money for the club and its functions. She has also been a Teaching Assistant for Introduction to Physical Anthropology, volunteered at the Mississippi Valley Archeology Center, and participated in the Archeological Field School in the Department of Cochabamba and Pirque Alto, Bolivia. Because of Elizabeth’s academic achievements she has been granted early acceptance to the graduate program in Anthropology (focusing on Andean Archeology) at the University of California, San Diego.

Samuel Albertsen (Theatre Arts)

Samuel Albertson is receiving the Recognition of Excellence Award for his work with the Department of Theatre Arts. Samuel has acted in over 19 productions while at UW-L, including the roles of Ethan in The Full Monty, Lopakin in The Cherry Orchard, Juan Peron in Evita, Jack in Dancing at Lughnasa, and Mozart in Amadeus.  In recognition of his outstanding performance work, he has competed at the American College Theatre Festival for the past 3 years. He has also assisted in lighting designs, served as a leader in the scene shop for two years, and was the President of Alpha Psi, a student service fraternity. He has performed with the comedy improve troupe, “The Heart of La Crosse,” and also with the La Crosse Community Theatre.  Sam has been president of the Theatre Club for two years.  Samuel was also a member of the season selection committee for the theatre department. Samuel was a great mentor to underclassmen because he understands the value of being a positive role model.

Danielle Gillett (University Honors)

Danielle Gillett is receiving the Recognition of Excellence award for her involvement with the University Honors Program.  A major in Exercise and Sport Science, Danielle is vice-president of the Fitness Sport Management Club, and a member of the Pre-Med and Physical Therapy clubs. She has done a lot of work relating to her major including blood drives, basketball tournaments, and Massage Day. Danielle has been a turbo kick instructor at UW-L for the past two years. She has volunteered with cardiac rehabilitation programs to help people with lifestyle changes.  Danielle also tutors at the Boys and Girls Club of La Crosse.  Danielle is the daughter of James and Mary Gillett of Rosendale, Wisconsin.

Jacqueline Jarvis (Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies)

Jacqueline Jarvis is being nominated by the Department of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies.  She is majoring in Political Science-Pre-Law and minoring in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies.  Jacqueline has gathered a group to protest the Wisconsin Legislature when they were going to take away birth control on campus.  She did a year-long internship as a legal advocate at the domestic violence shelter in La Crosse.  Jacqueline has worked at the District Attorney’s Office to assist the Victims Witness Coordinator.  She is also a member of the Progressives on campus and has worked with Fair Wisconsin educating the community about the marriage ban.

CLS Graduate Student “Recognition of Excellence” Awards

Julie Kinney – Graduate Reading Program

Julie Kinney graduated from UW-Madison with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English with an Emphasis in Creative Writing in December of 1992. In May of 2000 she gained her Secondary Education Certification from Edgewood College and will graduate from UW-La Crosse in May 2007 with Certification as a Reading Specialist (K-12) and a Reading Teacher (K-12). Among her activities and awards, Julie has been the winner of the Wisconsin State Reading Association Pat Bricker Research Award, the UW-La Crosse Graduate Student Research Grant, and Essay Award Winner at Edgewood College. She has also been a part of the Fine Arts Day Committee at St. James School and Facilitator for Girl’s Stories/Girl’s Voices at Edgewood College. She has published works including but not limited to “Reader Response Theory and Identity Formation in Classrooms” in WSRA Journal, “The Sandman’s Wife” in Carnage Hall, and “On the Moon” with Nancy Willard in 360 Degrees. Julie is currently an English Teacher in the La Crosse School District.

Sara Johnson – College Student Development and Administration

Sara Johnson graduated from UW-Madison in May 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and a certificate in Women’s Studies.  She will graduate from UW-LA Crosse with a Masters Degree in College Student Development and Administration. Some of her recent activities include being a member of the Equity Scorecard Team, UW-L Office of Student Life, and Safety on Our Sidewalks, and has worked to bring attention to multiculturalism issues and diversity on campus through work with students in the Diversity Organizations Coalition and the PRIDE center. Sara also has much experience relating to her field including Office of Student Life Graduate Advisor, Office of Multicultural Student Services Graduate Advisor, Career Services Office Graduate Intern at Viterbo University, and Graduate Assistant for the School of Education at UW-La Crosse. Sara will graduate in May 2007.  Sara is the daughter of Kurt and Barbara Johnson of Whitehall, Wisconsin.

Rachel Morey – Master of Education-Professional Development

Rachel Kay Morey graduated from UW-Stout with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Family and Consumer Education in January of 2004. She will graduate from UW-La Crosse in May 2007 with a Masters of Education in Professional Development with a 4.0 GPA. Some of her awards include The Lion’s Service Award: District 27 Wisconsin Lion’s Club and the New Educator of the Year Award: Wisconsin Association of Family and Consumer Educators. She is involved in many activities such as New Lisbon Wellness Committee, Junior High Track Coach, Junior Varsity Volleyball Coach, Summer School Teacher, Class Advisor, Service Learning Day Committee, and Bible School Director at Bethany Lutheran Church. Rachel is currently teaching middle and high school Family and Consumer Science Education for the District of New Lisbon.

John E. Magerus Award for Outstanding Graduating Senior in the College of Liberal Studies

Tyler Schuenemann (Philosophy)

Tyler Schuenemann is a Philosophy and History major with a minor in International Studies.  He has received many awards including the David Lee Miller Scholarship for Creativity in Philosophy, the Frederick and Kathryn Davies Scholarship in History and the UW-L Undergraduate Research Grant.  Tyler presented his paper “Panelous and the Plague” at the 2005 State University of New York Oneonta Undergraduate Philosophy Conference.  His paper “Religious Aspects of Ecology:  Christianity and Daoism” was presented at the 2006 National Conference of Undergraduate Research in Asheville, North Caroline and at the 2006 Celebration of Undergraduate Research and Creativity at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.  As Co-Chair of the UW-L Amnesty International Club, Tyler has organized human right campaigns on campus.  He is currently in the midst of working on the Sudan-divestment campaign in Wisconsin.  In association with the UW-L Philosophy Club, he started a film club on campus which seeks to educate students about socio-political issues around the world.  He has been a tutor for the Boys and Girls Club at Hamilton Elementary in La Crosse.  Tyler has worked as a teaching assistant for Dr. David Miller, Dr. Kenneth Maly and Dr. Sharon Sherwitz in “Introduction to Philosophy” courses. He has been on the Dean’s List for five consecutive semesters.